Method and applet for ordering a beverage

Abstract

 Method for ordering a beverage prepared in a beverage preparation assembly (2) using a mobile device (11). The mobile device (11) has a processing device (10) and a user interface (12) connected to the processing device (10). Beverage order data is prepared by subsequently determining a plurality of beverage parameters, comprising one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters (17, 18). and a structuring parameter. The beverage order data is then transmitted to the beverage preparation assembly (2).

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and applet for ordering a beverage which is prepared on request, and more specifically relates to a method for ordering a beverage prepared in a beverage preparation assembly using a mobile device.

Prior art

[0002] International patent publication WO2012/134296 discloses a sales outlet for vending beverages, and a method for monitoring a supply chain. In one embodiment, the sales outlet is part of a mobile vehicle, such as a small truck, a motor or scooter.

Summary of the invention

[0003] The present invention seeks to provide a novel method for allowing a large quantity of users to order beverages with personalized beverage parameters. According to the present invention, a method according to the preamble defined above is provided, in which the mobile device comprising a processing device and a user interface connected to the processing device, the method comprising preparing beverage order data by subsequently determining a plurality of beverage parameters, the plurality of beverage parameters comprising one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters, and a structuring parameter (e.g. foaming), and transmitting the beverage order data to the beverage preparation assembly. This allows a user to prepare an order for a beverage beforehand, e.g. when waiting in line for the beverage preparation assembly.

[0004] In a further embodiment, determining the structuring parameter comprises measuring acceleration data of the mobile device. Thus, by shaking the mobile device, the user can set the structuring (or foaming) parameter. The shaking and associated detection thereof can be e.g. two or three dimensional acceleration, and/or detection of rotation of the mobile device.

[0005] The determined structuring parameter is fed back to the user of the mobile device in a further embodiment using a feedback signal, e.g. a visual feedback signal. In an embodiment, the (visual) feedback signal for the determined structuring parameter is a simulated structuring animation (or picture) of the beverage associated with the beverage order data. Simulations to that effect may be executed locally in the mobile device, or received from a central location.

[0006] In a further embodiment determining the one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters comprises receiving input via the user interface, e.g. implemented as a keyboard, touchpad or touch screen of the mobile device.

[0007] The one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters comprise in a specific embodiment, a selection from one or more flavors, and strength of each from the one or more flavors, and a selection of strength of an additional sweetening ingredient. The one or more beverage ingredient parameters may further comprise a topping parameter, or even other additional beverage ingredients, such as caffeine.

[0008] In an even further embodiment, transmitting the beverage order data comprises composing an order code using the determined beverage parameters and displaying the order code via a display of the mobile device. The order code is e.g. a QR code presented in a display of the mobile device, and a scanner or other suitable unit in the beverage preparation assembly. Also other visual codes are possible, such as bar codes. Alternatively, transmitting the beverage order data comprises wireless transmission of the beverage order data. This can be accomplished using Near field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, other types of wireless data transfer, but also using audible or optical codes.

[0009] The method comprises in a further embodiment calculating a nutritional value of the beverage based on the determined beverage parameters, and displaying the nutritional value to the user of the mobile device. This may help a user in selecting a proper and suitable beverage. In an even further embodiment, the method comprises selecting a signature mix as the beverage, (e.g. on a website, in an app, from a list of codes provided near the beverage preparation assembly, etc.), and determining the beverage parameters associated with the selected signature mix (e.g. with a look-up table or system).

[0010] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a computer program product (e.g. an applet, a widget, a software program), comprising executable instructions, which when loaded on a processing system, provides the processing system with the functionality of the method according to any one of the present invention embodiments, This would allow to disseminate this functionality to a very large group of interested users, e.g. having a mobile communication device.

Short description of drawings

[0011] The present invention will be discussed in more detail below, using a number of exemplary embodiments, with reference to the attached drawings, in which

Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of major components of an embodiment of a beverage preparation assembly according to the present invention;

Fig. 2 shows a schematic diagram of the major components of a mobile device which can be used to implement or execute the present invention embodiments;

Fig. 3a shows a schematic representation of a mobile device used to compose a beverage order for the beverage preparation assembly of Fig. 1, and a first ordering step;

Fig. 3b shows a schematic representation with a second ordering step;

Fig. 3c shows a schematic representation with a third ordering step;

Fig. 3d shows a schematic representation of a final ordering step.

Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0012] The present invention relates to local preparation of beverages, such as dairy based beverages. The local preparation can be accomplished using small, e.g. mobile, points of sales, using a beverage preparation assembly in a vehicle, or other points of sales open to public, such as vending machines. Instead of waiting in line before being able to order a beverage from an operator of the vehicle, the present invention embodiments allow to select or prepare an order for the beverage on a personal computing device, such as a smart phone.

[0013] Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of major components of an embodiment of a beverage preparation assembly 2 according to the present invention, comprising a beverage preparation assembly 2 for local beverage preparation, e.g. using a small vehicle 1 (see also Fig. 2-4). The vehicle 1 comprising a frame body 3, the frame body 3 having a plurality of walls 4 providing structural strength to the vehicle 1 and forming a main internal space 5 for accommodating at least one main beverage ingredient package 6. The plurality of walls 4 comprise thermally insulating material, in order to keep the contents of the main beverage ingredients 6 in the main internal space 5 cool during a long period.

[0014] In the schematic view as shown, the beverage preparation assembly 2 comprises a cooling element 8 disposed in the internal space 5 for cooling the internal space 5 and its contents, i.e. the at least one main beverage ingredient package 6, during actual operation. In an embodiment, the cooling element 8 comprises a cooling liquid, known as such, or even blocks of ice, and passively cools the internal space 5. In another embodiment, the cooling element 8 may be an active component using e.g. electric power for actively cooling the internal space 5.

[0015] A first connection unit 23 is provided in the frame body 3, e.g. on the top side thereof, and is connected to the at least one main beverage ingredient package 6. The at least one main beverage ingredient package 6 may comprise a bag containing a main beverage ingredient and a cassette holding the bag ('bag-in-box'). The first connection unit 23 may therefore be referred to as a "bag-in-box" connector (BIB). Typically, the at least one main beverage ingredient package 6 stores a dairy product such as milk in liquid form, but other liquid ingredients are conceivable. Also other types of containers, cans or even tanks may be used as the main beverage ingredient package 6 in the beverage preparation assembly 2 of the present invention.

[0016] The beverage preparation assembly 2 is further provided with a pump 23a disposed between the first connection unit 23 and a mixing unit 31, the pump 23a being arranged for pumping ingredients from the at least one main beverage ingredient package 6 to the mixing unit 31, e.g. implemented as a peristaltic pump. The advantage is that in such a type of pump, the hose used is easily replaceable.

[0017] Furthermore, additional beverage ingredient containers 25 are provided and connected the mixing unit 31 via associated pumps 25a disposed between said containers 25 and mixing unit 31. In typical embodiments the additional beverage ingredient containers 25 comprise main ingredient additives such as sweeteners, flavours, colours, structuring agents, viscosity agents and the like.

[0018] The beverage preparation assembly 2 is further provided with a pressurized air source 26 connected to the mixing unit 31. The pressurized air source 26 may be a pre-pressurized canister, or a regular air pump.

[0019] The mixing unit 31 comprises specially arranged apertures for injecting air (in the form of jets or bubbles) into a beverage being prepared in the mixing unit 31 for serving in a cup 35.

[0020] The beverage preparation assembly 2 is also provided with sensor elements 32, such as a thermometer 32 disposed in the internal space 5, and a load cell 33 disposed external to the internal space 5. The load cell 33 is positioned in the frame body 3 such that the weight (or weight increase) of the cup 35 can be monitored during operation

[0021] A control unit 30 is further provided as part of the beverage preparation assembly 2 and is connected to control the pump 23a of the main beverage ingredient, the one or more pumps 25a associated with the additional beverage ingredient containers 25, and the pressurized air source 26. Furthermore, the control unit 31 is connected to the sensor elements 32 and load cell 33.

[0022] The pump 23a and one or more pumps 25 a may be any type of pump suitable for pumping the associated fluid or liquid, and e.g. comprise an electrically driven pump. Alternatively, the liquid or fluid in the main beverage ingredient package 6 and additional beverage ingredient containers 25 are pressurized (e.g. using pumps) and the amount delivered to the mixing unit is controlled using appropriate and associated valves.

[0023] In actual operation, the beverage preparation assembly 2 is part of a vehicle 1 which is operated by an operator. Customers can order a cup 35 holding a customer specific beverage such as a cold, whipped, milk-based beverage having a specific viscosity and flavour. The cup 35 rests on the load cell 33 next to the mixing unit 31 and below an outlet of the mixing unit 31. Based on customer specifications, the beverage comprises a certain mixture of main and additional ingredients from the at least one main beverage ingredient package 6 and additional beverage ingredient containers 25, and air bubbles or foam injected by the pressurized air source 26. The control unit 30 is responsible for the optimum beverage mixing and delivery by controlling the one or more pumps 23a, 25a based on predetermined parameters and measured signals from the sensor elements 32 and load cell 33. For example, the load cell 33 delivers a weight increase signal to the control unit 30 such that the amount of beverage in the cup 35 can be determined. The control unit 30 further controls the amount of additional ingredients to be mixed and the amount of air to be injected into the beverage.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment, the beverage preparation assembly 2 is further provided with a battery pack 17 which is disposed on or in the frame body 3 external to the internal space 5. The battery pack 17 is arranged for powering one or more electrical components of the beverage preparation assembly 2, e.g. the control unit 30, pumps 23a, 25a and sensor elements 32.

[0025] In Fig. 2 a schematic diagram is shown of a personal computing device, or mobile device 11 and its major components relevant for implementing and/or executing the present invention method embodiments. The mobile device 11 is e.g. a personal communication device such as a mobile telephone, smart phone, portable computer, tablet, etc. with the capacity to execute a software program such as an applet, widget, etc. The mobile device 11 comprises a processing unit 10, e.g. in the form of a CPU or dedicated processor chip, supported by a memory unit 13 (comprising data memory as well as instruction/program memory). The mobile device 11 may be further provided with an antenna unit 14 connected to the processing unit 10, e.g. to provide wireless communication, including but not limited to e.g. GSM, UMTS, LTE. The antenna unit may also be arranged to implement other wireless data transfer techniques, including but not limited to Bluetooth, WiFi, Near Field Communication (NFC), Zigbee, IrDA or other forms of wireless communication standards. Even further, the antenna unit 14 may be arranged as a location finder unit, e.g. based on GPS techniques.

[0026] In order to be able to implement specific embodiments according to the present invention, the mobile device 11 is further provided with an acceleration sensor 15 connected to the processing unit 10. The acceleration sensor 15 is used to measure motion of the mobile device 11, such as shaking in the specific case of the present invention embodiments. The acceleration sensor 15 may be any suitable sensor, e.g. based on micromechanical sensors, able to measure acceleration in a single direction, in two dimensions or even in three dimensions. The acceleration sensor 15 also possibly comprises preprocessing or dedicated electronics for interfacing with the processing unit 10.

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention may comprise special purpose and/or general purpose computer devices that each may include standard computer hardware such as a central processing unit (CPU) or other processing means for executing computer executable instructions, computer readable media for storing executable instructions, a display or other output means for displaying or outputting information, a keyboard or other input means for inputting information, and so forth. Examples of suitable computer devices include hand-held devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, networked PCs, minicomputers, and the like.

[0028] The invention will be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, that are executed by a processing device, including, but not limited to a personal computer. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structure definitions and instances, etc, that perform particular tasks or Implement particular abstract data types. Typically the functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various environments. In the present invention embodiments, the entire software program product could be executed on the personal computing device 11, but alternatively, a (small) part of the software program product may be implemented in the control unit 30 of the beverage preparation assembly 2 of the vehicle 1.

[0029] Embodiments within the scope of the present invention also include computer readable media or a computer program product having executable instructions. When loaded in a processing system, the processing system is arranged and equipped to implement the functionality of the methods according to the present invention embodiments. Such computer readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired executable instructions and which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer readable media. Executable instructions comprise, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions.

[0030] In a first embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for ordering a beverage prepared in a beverage preparation assembly using a mobile device 11, as shown schematically in Figs. 3a-3d. The method comprises preparing beverage order data by subsequently determining a plurality of beverage parameters. The plurality of beverage parameters comprises one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters and a structuring (e.g. foaming) parameter. Finally, the method comprises transmitting the beverage order data to the beverage preparation assembly 2. Structuring of the beverage may be accomplished using the pressurized air source 26 (see description of Fig. 1 above), in which case the structuring comprises foaming of the beverage. In addition, or alternatively, a structuring agent can be added from one of the additional beverage ingredient containers 25, e.g. an alginate solution to modify the viscosity of the (dairy) beverage.

[0031] In Fig. 3a, the user interface 12 of the mobile device 11 is shown in the form of a touch screen 16. When the method is being executed, fields 17 are shown on the touch screen for selecting a flavor and flavor strength, and a further field 18 is shown for selecting a sweetening agent strength.

[0032] In a next step, shown schematically in Fig. 3b, the structuring parameter is determined by measuring acceleration (or movement) data of the mobile device 11. As discussed above in relation to the acceleration sensor 15, the movement and/or acceleration can be measured, in one or multiple directions. Thus, the user can select e.g. foaming parameter simply by shaking the mobile device 11.

[0033] The determined structuring (foaming) parameter is fed back to the user of the mobile device 11 using a feedback signal, e.g. a visual feedback signal. The visual feedback signal is e.g. a visual animation or pre-recorded image on the touch screen 16. The visual feedback signal for the determined structuring parameter is in a further embodiment a simulated structuring animation of the actual beverage associated with the beverage order data. Simulation of such data is known in the art, see e.g. the article 'Animating Bubble Interactions in a Liquid Foam', by O. Busaryev et al., ACM Transactions on Graphics, vol. 31, no. 4, July 2012. These simulations may be executed in the mobile device 11 itself, or may be executed at a location remote from the mobile device 11, after which the animations can be downloaded to the mobile device 11 (in a manner known as such to the person skilled in the art). When the alternative structuring parameter is used, e.g. associated with adding a viscosity agent, the simulation can be executed using shear thickening effect simulations of beverages, which are known as such.

[0034] In the ordering method, determining the one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters comprises receiving input via the user interface 12. In addition to, or as an alternative to the touch screen 16 shown in Fig. 3a, this may be accomplished using a keyboard, mouse or touch pad which is part of the mobile device 11.

[0035] In a specific embodiment, applicable to ordering from a beverage preparation assembly 2 providing dairy based beverages, the one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters comprise a selection 17 from one or more flavors, and a strength parameter for each from the one or more flavors and a selection 18 of a strength parameter for an additional sweetening ingredient.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the one or more beverage ingredient parameters further comprise a topping parameter. The selection thereof may be implemented as selecting one or more from a plurality of selection fields 19 on the touch screen 16 of the mobile device 11, as shown in Fig. 3c. The selection field 19 may then be provided with a small image of the possible toppings which the user can select.

[0037] Further beverage ingredient parameters can be selected in even further embodiments, with an associated selection page or image on the mobile device 11. E.g., a graded selection from current mood to a desired mood may be pictured (tired to energized), which is linked to selection of a caffeine parameter as additional beverage ingredient parameter.

[0038] After receiving all the required beverage parameters, the method comprises the composition of an image of a prepared beverage consistent with the selected beverage parameters. Again, this image can be presented on the touch screen 16.

[0039] Furthermore, the transmitting of the beverage order data may comprise composing an order code using the determined beverage parameters, and displaying the order code via a display or touch screen 16 of the mobile device 11. The order code is e.g. a QR code, which visualization can be detected by the beverage preparation assembly 2 using a suitable interface (e.g. a scanning device or a camera).

[0040] As an alternative another optical code might be provided on the touch screen 16, e.g. in the form of a two-dimensional barcode or a color code. Even further alternatives may be implemented to transmit the beverage order data to the beverage preparation assembly 2, such as wireless transmission (Bluetooth, Near Field Communication, Infrared, etc.), using associated receiving components connected to the control unit 30 of the beverage preparation assembly 2. Further alternatives include using sound as the interface medium, e.g. using a speaker of the mobile device 11 and a microphone connected to the control unit 30 of the beverage preparation assembly 2.

[0041] In an even further embodiment, additional data is calculated based on the beverage parameters as selected by the user. E.g., the method further comprises calculating a nutritional value of the beverage based on the determined beverage parameters, and displaying the nutritional value to the user of the mobile device 11. Depending on the user's further input, this may result in adjustment of one or more of the beverage parameters.

[0042] In an even further embodiment, the method comprises selecting a signature mix as the beverage, and determining the beverage parameters associated with the selected signature mix. The signature mix is e.g. associated with a beverage recipe (i.e. a collection of beverage parameters) from a predefined library or look-up table, e.g. stored centrally and accessible via a website, app, or a (coded) list on the vehicle 1. The website/app may be associated with a company exploiting a large number of beverage preparation assemblies 2 (mobile in a vehicle 1, and stationary in e.g. kiosk locations), and is e.g. implementing a loyalty program (and e.g. provide gift coupons, savings programs, or the possibility to acquire pre-paid drinks).

[0043] When the mobile device 11 is properly equipped (e.g. with a GPS receiver as part of antenna unit 14), the software being executed on the mobile device 11 may be arranged to provide directions to the nearest location(s) where a beverage can be obtained (vending machine, or mobile vehicle 1 when this is provided with a proper location unit).

[0044] Beverage order data may be stored by a user on the mobile device 11 (or more specifically in the associated memory unit 13 thereof), allowing to build a personal library of beverage recipes. These recipes can be re-used later, and in a further embodiment, these stored beverage recipes are shared with other users via social media (twitter, Facebook, etc.).

[0045] The present invention embodiments have been described above with reference to a number of exemplary embodiments as shown in the drawings. Modifications and alternative implementations of some parts or elements are possible, and are included in the scope of protection as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. Method for ordering a beverage prepared in a beverage preparation assembly (2) using a mobile device (11), the mobile device (11) comprising a processing device (10) and a user interface (12) connected to the processing device (10),
the method comprising:

preparing beverage order data by subsequently determining a plurality of beverage parameters, the plurality of beverage parameters comprising:

- one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters (17, 18);

- a structuring parameter; and

transmitting the beverage order data to the beverage preparation assembly (2).

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein determining the structuring parameter comprises measuring acceleration data of the mobile device (11).

3. Method according to claim 2, wherein the determined structuring parameter is fed back to the user of the mobile device (11) using a feedback signal.

4. Method according to claim 3, wherein the feedback signal for the determined structuring parameter is a simulated structuring animation of the beverage associated with the beverage order data.

5. Method according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein determining the one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters (17, 18) comprises receiving input via the user interface.

6. Method according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the one or more additional beverage ingredient parameters comprise:

- a selection (17) from one or more flavors, and strength of each from the one or more flavors;

- selection (18) of strength of an additional sweetening ingredient.

7. Method according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the one or more beverage ingredient parameters further comprise a topping parameter (19).

8. Method according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein transmitting the beverage order data comprises:

composing an order code using the determined beverage parameters;

displaying the order code via a display (16) of the mobile device (11).

9. Method according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein transmitting the beverage order data comprises wireless transmission of the beverage order data.

10. Method according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the method further comprises
calculating a nutritional value of the beverage based on the determined beverage parameters, and
displaying the nutritional value to the user of the mobile device (11).

11. Method according to any one of claims 1-10, selecting a signature mix as the beverage, and determining the beverage parameters associated with the selected signature mix.

12. Computer program product
comprising executable instructions, which when loaded on a processing system, provides the processing system with the functionality of the method according to any one of claims 1-11.

Drawing